Description

This volunteering project will get you up close and personal with different species of turtle, some of which can span up to 4 metres in length and weigh over 800kg. The main aim of this expedition is to conserve these magnificent animals by protecting their nests so that eggs are safe to develop to hatchlings and to then protect the hatchlings from predation by birds and crabs until they reach the ocean. Another major aim of this project is to record data that will enable us to establish the effects of climate change on the gender of new born hatchlings. You will also get to PIT tag the nesting turtles and radio collar a select few so that we can monitor their migration movements in the future.

This conservation research will be combined with adventure activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, visiting a National Park or a visit to Sri Lanka's elephant orphanage - so you can really take advantage of the country where you'll be based. This is not only a great opportunity to learn new skills, but also to make new friends and discover much about yourself that you didn't know before.

Please contact us for availability, photos from previouse trips and more.

Highlights

Volunteers will learn all sorts of useful scientific fieldworking skills, including population monitoring, animal handling, PIT tagging and how to fit radio tags. You will get the opportunity to get one-to-one with nature and the work with some of the oldest living species on earth such as the Green Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, Leatherback Turtle and many more.

You will also get to experience adventure activities that allow you to really take advantage of the beautiful area of Sri Lank. You can take advantage of the secluded beeches and reefs in our snorkelling or scuba diving activities activities or visit the local Nation Parks or the famous elephant orphanage of Sri Lanka.

Qualifications

No qualifications are needed for this position as all training will be provided.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

1290 per 2-week slot

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing

Program Fees Include:

This price covers the cost of all your conservation and research activities and extra activities whilst on the project. It also covers the cost of your accommodation and food (breakfast, lunch and dinner) as well as evening drinks. It covers the cost of transport between the research sites and base camp.

Experience Required

yes

None

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

This expedition is perfect for those who want to do something extraordinary. This is not an everyday project and these animals are rarely seen in the wild. This is a very hands-on project and everyone will need to muck in to make sure we can conserve as many turtles as possible in a season. A certain level of fitness will be required to carry out the short walks necessary to monitor the beach at night. You will learn a lot on this project and take a great deal away from it, but it will require a high level of commitment. If you are at all worried about fitness levels or any of the mentioned tasks please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Age Range

16+

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 4 - 12

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

3-5 working days

WildVenture Volunteering's Mission Statement

Our long list of conservation contacts, our commitment to making a change and our vast knowledge of the local area and people means we are in a perfect position to make your help go a long way. The valuable data we collect is passed on to our contacts who use it to further help the species population.

Year Founded

2009